Author: Carolyn Norton Schmalenberger

Be sure and come to see us at the Mid-Atlantic Sports and BOAT Show in Virginia Beach this weekend! Norton Yachts will have a brand new 2017 COBIA 220 CC on display.

The Mid-Atlantic Sport and Boat Show in Virginia Beach will have boats on display for every pocketbook. Admission Rates Adults – $8 Children 12 and under – FREE When? Friday, February 10th, Noon-9 pm, Saturday, February 11th, 10am-8pm, and Sunday, February 12th, 10am-5pm.

It is with great sorrow that we mourn the tremendous loss of one of our own, Sid Simmons. Sid was Norton Yachts long-time talented, brilliant, and loyal service yard foreman. Our friend, Sid, was the definition of “Excellence.” If you knew him we feel sure you agree.

Sid passed away last evening, January 16, 2017, after a very brief illness. We will share more when arrangements have been made.

William Penn said, “Death is but crossing the world, as friends do the seas; they live in one another still…”

What to do before and if you get caught in a storm.

Sometimes storms seem to appear out of nowhere. Lightning is no fun on land, let alone out on the water with a giant metal mast protruding from your boat. It can cause you to spend large amounts of money in repairs, and even worse it can put you and your crew in danger. A good sailor always keeps an eye out for bad weather, but in the chance that you find yourself on the water one there are a few precautions you can take to provide safety for you and your crew.

Equip your boat with a Lightening Protection System-

These systems will redirect the charge of the lighting in a way that will hopefully prevent serious damage to your vessel. Think of them like the surge protectors we use to protect our televisions and computers.

If you see signs of a bad storm, try to escape its path.

If getting out of harms way is not an option, put on your PFDs and take down your sails!

In the cases of high winds, you want to get your sails down to prevent the boat capsizing.

Move Inside!

Move inside and towards the middle of the boat. Don’t be a storm chaser! Take Cover!

Unplug all Electronics

We do this during every storm around my house, and it is the best way to be sure that your marine equipment doesn’t get toasted. No one wants to have to buy another full set of electronics! And if you are that individual that has been trying to talk his wife into letting him buy some new toys for his boat, by all means leave them plugged in.

We hope that none of you are ever faced with a situation like this! Always keep an eye on the skies and the radars. If you see any signs of foul weather, just stay/go on shore. It’s not worth the risk of riding it out. Norton’s also offers a Marine Weather Endorsement through ASA. If you have any interest in learning how to plan and navigate based on the weather, ASA 119 is definitely something to look into

Norton’s Annual Everything Sail Seminar on February 25, 2017 is our way of thanking all of you for being the best customers ever!

We are thankful to have met so many wonderful people over all these years. We want to show our appreciation through this annual event where all of our fellow sailors and boaters have the opportunity to listen to knowledgeable speakers give invaluable information on Everything Sail! It’s also fun to socialize with others who share their interest in sailing! Plus, it’s Winter and we miss you and are ready to talk Sailing already!

2017 marks another year of great speakers, sharing knowledge, and making friends and acquaintances! What’s more, there’s always something new to learn. Join us!

Everything Sail Seminar 2017 will be held at the Deltaville Community Association building on February 25, 2017 from 10 am to 3:00 pm. Lunch will be available. Registration must be done in advance, and it will open Jan. 6, 2017 and close February 20, 2017. Seats are limited and fill up very quickly.

The topics for this year will include Marine Weather, Safety at Sea, Sail Trim for Advanced Cruisers, New Raymarine Electronics, and Trouble Shooting Yanmar Diesels. There will be opportunities for discussion between each topic.

We always look forward to this event, and we hope you do, too! We can’t wait to see you there! If you have any questions regarding this event, you can email your questions to info@nortonyachts.com

This is one of the biggest questions you can ask a dealer! What are you going to do for me after I place my order and after I take delivery of my boat?

The bottom line is: You want a dealer that can help you through every step of the New Boat Process.

When you are looking to buy from a dealer, keep these things in mind-

You need someone who is knowledgeable and can answer the questions that you have before you make your purchase.

You need someone who will walk you through the steps after you have ordered your boat.

You need a Dealership that has been in the business for a long time and will be the best choice in commissioning your new boat.

You need a Dealership that will take the time to give you a thorough orientation aboard your boat before you take it to your hailing port.

You need a Dealership that will be able to take care of you for regular maintenance, upgrades, and warranty work.

You also need a Dealer who will teach you! Whether that is through a Sailing or Navigation Class, or through a Yanmar or Sailing Seminar.

Norton Yachts has been doing all of the above since 1948, and we intend to keep on doing what’s best for our customers. We want to be the one you turn to! When you buy a boat from us, you become a part of our family, and we take good care of our family!

If this is your first US Sailboat Show, it can be somewhat difficult getting your bearings. The best way to prepare and make the most of this Boat Show is to study the 2016 US Sailboat Show Layout and Map out a strategy. Find out at what docks your favorite manufacturers will be, label where your favorite exhibitors are, and put a big old circle around those restrooms. This way, when you hear that gun on the first day, you can be sure to make a beeline for your number one location.

Norton’s has created a map of the US Sailboat Show for you, and we even took the liberty of marking what we assumed would be your two favorite locations ;) We also marked those restroom locations for you!

The big US Sailboat Show in Annapolis is the perfect place to look at all of the latest and greatest that the sailing world has to offer. All of the major production manufacturers will be represented at the boat show. If a “major” player is not there, it’s probably now a “minor” player. That being said, you may enjoy looking at new but are really interested in a previously enjoyed or brokerage boat. Not everyone at the show is a new boat buyer and shoppers are always looking for great deals on a pre-owned sailboat at the US Sailboat Show.

When enjoying the new boat displays you may want to inquire about a late model or “last year’s” unsold inventory that a dealer may still have available for a slightly lower price. Many new boat dealers also offer brokerage boats and often specialize in selling used models of the new brand they carry. Frequently at the boat show, new boat dealers will take “trade ins” on new boats being sold there. Ask your dealer about any used models and get information as to how they are equipped. Take the time to ask a dealer representative about the condition of a “trade in” or brokerage boat and when the vessel is available for visual inspection. Your dealer will be actively trying to move this trade while at the show so be ready to make an appointment to see the pre-owned boat as soon as possible.

In addition to many new boat dealers at the boat show, there will also be representatives from brokerage firms. Learn about boats for every pocketbook, slip size, and intended purpose. And contrary to what you may hear, competitive financing is available for pre-owned boats! Remember that fall is a perfect time to buy your boat, so start shopping!

Hotels

Where to Eat-

Something Quick?

This place serves up all kinds of yummy crepes for a quick bite to eat at Breakfast or Lunch! Everything from a peanut butter and chocolate crepe to the Kevin Bacon crepe (Turkey, Bacon, Cheese, & Tomatoes with 1000 Island Sauce) <— So, Good!

There isn’t a more exciting waterfront than the US Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Oct. 5-9, 2017! It is the nation’s largest in-water boat show and, it is sure to be even bigger this year than last year.

So, we’ve assembled a few “Tips and Tricks” to help you enjoy the show:

You’ll need more than 1 day to take it all in!

If your time allows, purchase a multi-day pass to get the most bang for your buck. Download in advance or pick up a show map at the gate.

Make your hotel reservations early!

If all of Annapolis is sold out of places to stay, you may want to get a room in Waldorf or another town where your drive in on show day.

Parking near the show is pretty IMPOSSIBLE,

so park in the designated lots and ride the bus in to the show.

Proper Shoes!

It probably goes without saying, but wear comfortable boating or non-marking shoes. Be prepared to be asked to remove your shoes prior to boarding. Moving around decks in hose or slick socks is not recommended.

Be Prepared for Sunny Weather

The weather may be sunny and beautiful, so wear sun glasses, use sun screen, and perhaps wear a hat. If it rains, wear your foul weather gear and rubber boots to keep your feet dry. There are low lying places around the show perimeter that are prone to flooding. Umbrellas are dangerous to others at a crowded boat show….not to mention, they fly overboard when caught by the wind!

But Also Be Prepared for Rainy Weather

If it is raining, it might be the perfect time to look at the boats you are very interested in. Many show goers head for the tents when it starts raining and the crowds thin out on the docks. Take this opportunity to look at your favorite boats when it is less crowded. Open lockers, bilges, and ask the dealer your questions.

Map out a Strategy, and also the Restrooms ;)

Very important…..Look at the map and figure out where the porta-lets are! When you need them, you want to know where they are!

Easy Sign in

You’ll be asked to “sign in” at most of the displays. Some people carry envelope return address stickers instead of writing their name on the cards. Stick a label on it!

Opening Gun!

Get there in time for the opening gun and make a mad dash for the favorite boats on your list to check out. The busiest times during the show tend to be in the afternoon.

Avoid Lines at Lunchtime

If you are there for the day and purchasing lunch at the show, plan on eating earlier than noon or an hour or so after 12 so you don’t stand in a very long line.

Make sure kids have their PFDs

If you plan to bring small children, remember their PFD. In a large crowd on the docks, we’ve seen small children go overboard. Better to be safe!

VIP DAY

Thursday is VIP Day and open to the Trades. Tickets for VIP Day are more expensive but the crowds are usually lighter. After Thursday, Friday and Monday are not quite as busy as Saturday and Sunday.

What’s a Painkiller?

If you’ve never had a Painkiller at the Boat Show, it’s an experience! Order a Pusser’s Painkiller, kick back, and enjoy the show…newbies are better off starting with a #1!

Prepare for NEXT YEAR!

As soon as you return home from the show, make reservations at your favorite Annapolis hotel for next year’s show. The Sailboat Show is always on the same Columbus Day weekend!

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Testimonials

I have already and will continue to recommend Norton Yachts to fellow boaters and work associates. My thanks to Norton for a fabulous experience!\r\n\r\n-J.S....

The Norton crew is known for being the best and they sure prove it. What others call good service they aren\'t satisfied with. I\'m on my third boat from them and it won\'t be the last.\r\n\r\n-P.K....

Again, it was truly a pleasure doing business with you! We shall surely tell others about our experience and stop in to see you whenever we are in the area. We love our boat!\r\n\r\n-B.B....

We love our new boat! The 4th of July weekend gave us time to spend on it, and had a blast! Thanks for your kind and courteous service. We will do business with you again!\r\n\r\n-D.W....

Mike is wonderful! I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate all his help. You all have made buying my new boat an easy task. Thanks for everything!\r\n\r\n-H.S....

I bought my boat from Norton Yachts, the MOST professional dealership I have ever encountered! You would think it was their boat, the way they cared for every detail.\r\n\r\n-R.T....

Thank you from the top to the bottom of our heart. It was great being able to pick up our boat and know that you were only a phone call away for anything. You all are the best!\r\n\r\n-B.S....

Your Yanmar diesel engine seminar was very helpful. The presentation was great and technical terms were reduced to terms that non-mechanics understand. K.O.\r\n\r\n-J.G....

Thanks so much for the tremendous help and we really appreciate it. We took up a lot of your time, but you never made us feel that way. Thanks again!\r\n\r\n-T.J....

Thank you for all of your patience and guidance in helping us get used to our new boat. Our dream has come true and you helped make it happen. Thanks!\r\n\r\n-S.B....

We\'d like to thank you again for the service and support you have provided after the purchase of our new Hunter 41. The boat is great and so is the support!\r\n\r\n-R.J....

Sid is absolutely the most gifted individual I have ever met! I drew on a piece of paper my idea for increased hanging space in my aft cabin and he knew just what I wanted. The end result is better than I possibly imagined. D.B....

Brad did a great job of teaching us about our boat in a most entertaining way. Mike, and the Norton team have been great during our purchase and learning experience. L.K....

Brad is an outstanding instructor and a very gifted sailor. His ability to teach sailing and put everyone at ease makes him uniquely qualified for the Best Instructor award. A.H....

Mike Lynch is the best salesperson we have ever dealt with. His low key, laid back manner was exactly what we needed when searching for the perfect used boat. Mike smoothly moved us through the boat buying process and it couldn\'t have been easier. My...

Carolyn, you may not remember me, but two years ago today you sold me my first boat. As I was sitting here tonight I thought I\'d write a note thank you. I have been dreaming about a bigger boat since the end of the first year! I\'m coming to see yo...

You are friendly to your customers, cheerful at your work, and efficient and knowledgeable in your service. I don\'t know what more customers could desire. D.D....

I have already and will continue to recommend Norton Yachts to fellow boaters and work associates. My thanks to Norton for a fabulous experience! J.S....

It is nice to know that there are still people like yourselves in the boat business. As you know, we had a not so pleasant experience somewhere else. You have been right there to help us and we experienced first hand your commitment to excellent ser...

Again, it was truly a pleasure doing business with you! We shall surely tell others about our experience and stop in to see you whenever we are in the area. We love our boat! B.B....

Ken Schmalenberger at Norton Yachts is the epitome of the professional, courteous, and efficient salesperson. At no time did he knock the competition, but rather used the selling points of the Hunter line to sell us. He was so down to earth, and ...

Mike is wonderful! I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate all his help. You all have made buying my new boat an easy task. Thanks for everything! H.S....

Thank you from the top to the bottom of our heart. It was great being able to pick up our boat and know that you were only a phone call away if we needed anything. You all are the best! B.S....

When we called with a problem a few weekends ago, you all were there for us and helped talk us through every step of the way. You reassured us and calmed us down. This no only verifies why you deserve the Best Award but also that we have made some t...

Thank you Norton Yachts family for your sympathy and kindness in helping me get my late husband\'s boat sold. I shall drop in one of these days to see you all and wish you all the best. Thanks again for helping me in a very difficult time. E.K....

Carolyn, thanks so much for the tremendous help and we really appreciate it. I know we took up a lot of your time, but you never made us feel that way. Thanks again! T.J....

Thanks so much for all your help in getting our boat ready. We went down to the lake last weekend because we were told our boat was lake ready. I guess that their definition down there is not the same as yours! I guess that in time we will get used t...

Thank you for your patience in getting us used to our new boat. Our dream has come true and you helped make it happen. Thanks! S.B....